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August 5, 2019 <br />Dear Charter Commission: <br />I am writing to you because I am very concerned about the future of Hawaii's lands and waters, <br />specifically the changes that the Charter Commission is considering making to the Public Access, Open <br />Space and Natural Resources Commission (PONC). The People of the County of Hawaii voted strongly <br />time after time in favor of setting up this land fund at 2% of the tax revenue from property taxes. The <br />implementation of this fund was an outstanding example of strategic thinking about the lands and <br />ocean that this island depends on, not only for growing food and fish, but also for conserving the forests <br />and wild places that attract millions of tourists each year. The PONC fund has been used to conserve so <br />many special places around the island. Conservation of Hawaii is not finished. In fact, now it is more <br />important than ever to have this fund available to protect the lands and waters because, once those <br />precious resources are gone, they are gone forever. In order to continue the conservation of the <br />protected lands, we also need the Maintenance Fund to ensure protection in perpetuity. The <br />Stewardship Fund could be expanded by YOU, the Charter Commission, to help the hard working <br />volunteers who care for our and your lands, by allowing them some small compensation for their many <br />hours of work. I know that the leaders of the various non -profits would take care to apply for funds <br />from the stewardship funds for only valid, important reasons that would benefit all of us. And of course, <br />the PONC representatives will also provide overview of the use of the funds. <br />Please, think of your children and their children. What kind of Hawaii do you want to leave to <br />them? That decision is in your hands. Please choose wisely. <br />Mahalo. <br />Janet Britt <br />Kailua Kona, HI 96740 <br />Janetbritt50@gmail.com <br />Comm. No. 35.56 <br />